Jefferson Seril Utanes, a veteran Filipino voice actor widely known as “Goku ng Pinas,” has passed away. His family has not disclosed his age or the cause of death.
- Full name: Jefferson Seril Utanes
- Known as: “Goku ng Pinas” — Filipino voice of Son Goku (1986 Dragon Ball)
- Other notable roles: Doraemon; James (Pokémon); Usopp (One Piece); Kogoro Mori (Detective Conan)
- Wake: Viewing begins Dec. 17 at San Roque, Antipolo City
- Internment: Dec. 21 at Providence Memorial Park
- Family statement: Sister-in-law Elizabeth Teodoro asked for prayers for his soul
- Also known for: Voice-over announcer on the noontime program It’s Showtime
Family members broke the news on social media. “On behalf of my sister Catherine (Feliciano-Utanes) and her children Jhulianne [and] Justin, we humbly ask for prayers for the soul of my brother-in-law Jefferson Seril Utanes. May the Lord grant him eternal rest and perpetual light. Amen,” his sister-in-law Elizabeth Teodoro wrote. Catherine Feliciano-Utanes confirmed viewing and internment details for relatives and fans.
The Legacy
Jefferson Utanes played a central role in the growth of Filipino-dubbed anime. His top contributions include:
- Son Goku (Dragon Ball, 1986): As the Filipino voice of Goku, Utanes became synonymous with the character for a generation of viewers, earning the affectionate nickname “Goku ng Pinas.”
- Usopp (One Piece) & James (Pokémon): His range brought life to both heroes and comedic side characters across major franchises, helping anime resonate with Filipino audiences.
- Noontime voice-over announcer: Beyond dubbing, Utanes lent his recognizable voice to the variety program It’s Showtime, making him a familiar presence beyond anime fans.
Social Proof: Reactions and Tributes
The announcement prompted an outpouring of condolences online. Fans flooded comment sections and social platforms with memories and thanks, crediting Utanes for making their childhoods more fun and memorable through his dubbed characters. Friends, colleagues and fans also shared brief tributes, photos and messages asking for privacy and prayers for the family during the wake and internment.
Viewing begins Dec. 17 at San Roque in Antipolo City, with internment scheduled for Dec. 21 at Providence Memorial Park. Family requests prayers and privacy as they lay Jefferson Utanes to rest.
Image Referance: https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/photos/filipino-voice-actor-jefferson-utanes-passes-away/25722/